ESSENCE Poll: What's Your Favorite Breakout Performance of All Time?

Nine-year-old Quvenzhane Wallis' first foray into acting has earned her an Oscar nod for Best Actress in a Leading Role, making her the youngest person ever nominated in the category. And to think, this was the Louisiana native's first acting job ever!

We can think of other celebrities who have knocked their first major performances out the box. There was Jennifer Hudson's stellar performance as Effie White in Dreamgirls. Then a newbie, Hudson was not expected to steal the show, much less win an Oscar for Best Actress. Oprah Winfrey's turn as Miss Sophia in The Color Purple earned her an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Gabourey Sidibe also got an Oscar nod for Precious, while Will Smith's first role sealed his fate as one of Hollywood's most sought-after stars.

So tell us: Which breakout performance would you vote as your favorite? Share your thoughts in the comments below.